Pregnancy Health Alert: Gestational Diabetes Risks and Preventive Measures
Are you pregnant and haven’t been to the doctor lately? If you’ve experienced obesity, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or have a history of diabetes mellitus, you might be at risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes is a common condition many women face during pregnancy, but if not managed properly, it can significantly contribute to perinatal mortality and health issues for both the mother and child. High glucose levels during pregnancy may be due to pre-gestational diabetes, where the mother already suffers from diabetes, either unknown or uncontrolled. Excessive glucose can act as a teratogen, crossing the placenta and entering the fetal blood circulation, leading to various complications.
Complications associated with gestational diabetes include conditions like pre-eclampsia (increased blood pressure during pregnancy), preterm labor, and infections during and after pregnancy. It can also increase the risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
In addition to maternal effects, gestational diabetes can cause fetal issues such as spontaneous miscarriage, congenital anomalies, and problems in the cardiac and renal systems. It may also result in restricted intrauterine growth.
To prevent and control gestational diabetes, here are some preventive measures you can follow:
1. Pre-conceptional Advice: If you are overweight or have PCOS, it is essential to reach a healthy weight before getting pregnant. Seeking guidance on the right amount of weight gain during pregnancy can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother pregnancy.
2. Diet: Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is an evidence-based method for treating diabetes. It provides recommendations for calorie, protein, and fat intake during pregnancy. Normal-weight mothers should consume approximately 30kcal/kg, while overweight mothers can consume up to 24kcal/kg. Adding sufficient amounts of vegetables, fruits, and tofu to your diet is also recommended. It is advised to take a 9-month break from coffee and incorporate lime water into your routine.
3. Exercise: Engaging in a 45-minute brisk walking session before and during pregnancy can be beneficial. This can help reduce the body’s need for insulin, the hormone responsible for controlling sugar levels. Trying out maternal yoga can also add variety to your exercise routine. During pregnancy, it is advisable to stick to beginner or moderate level workouts.
4. ANC Visits: Ante-natal visits are crucial for early diagnosis of gestational diabetes and monitoring the response to treatment. Ideally, you should visit the antenatal clinic once in the first seven months, twice in the eighth month, and once every week until term. If that is not feasible, it is important to ensure at least four visits to the obstetrician. Regular check-ups can also help prevent and control co-morbidities like hypertension.
5. Self-Monitoring: Keeping a logbook of blood sugar levels that can be recorded at home is a useful practice. This helps alert your doctor about any sudden changes and may motivate you to keep your glucose levels under control.
By following these preventive measures, you can better manage gestational diabetes and reduce the associated risks to both you and your baby. Prioritizing your health during pregnancy is crucial for a successful and healthy outcome. Remember to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance based on your individual circumstances.
